COMMUNITY NEWS Focus

LA HABRA : Schools May Be Given Authority to Require Uniforms

Elementary and middle school principals soon may have the authority to impose mandatory uniform dress codes at their schools.

Many parents have been asking the district to require uniforms in an effort to discourage teasing and peer rivalry, district officials said. Last week, trustees of the La Habra City School District tentatively approved a policy that would give principals the power to require that uniforms be worn at their schools.

Assistant Supt. Ruth Fehr said most of the district's elementary schools probably will implement the mandatory dress code. Currently, there is a voluntary dress code that some students follow but parents have complained is not effective because few students wear the white shirts and blue pants or skirts.

Should principals decide to impose the dress code, they will need to give parents six months' notice. Any family who cannot afford to pay for a uniform would receive financial help from the school, district officials said.

The school board is expected to give final approval on the matter at a meeting later this month.